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Jordan is home to countless historically and culturally significant tourist towns. Just one of the many is Umm Al-Jimal, which translates to “mother of camels” in Arabic. This large village near the north eastern corner of Jordan is a fascinating blend of cultures old and new. If you plan a trip to North Jordan, Umm Al-Jimal should definitely be on your list!

Located within the Hauran or northern desert region of Jordan, Umm Al-Jimal is situated just 10km from the Syrian border. Despite the desert surrounding this village, the main industry in Umm Al-Jimal is agriculture and livestock raising. Today, the town has a relatively modern feel to it, but in the very center of the village lay the ancient ruins of cultures long gone from this earth. The many ruined buildings within Umm Al-Jimal date back to the Nabataean through Abbasid periods, and although major damage was done to the buildings over the years, many still stand largely unscathed.

Also known as Umm El-Jimal, Umm Al-Jimal is a very historically significant place. Its location is on the path of many ancient trade routes, which, historians say, made it a rather important village in ancient times. This proximity to ancient trade routes is also what led historians to believe that so many different cultures occupied this area over the years. Umm Al-Jimal has also been a place of great archaeological discoveries. Ever since 1905, when Princeton University led an expedition to Southern Syria and the surrounding areas, Umm Al-Jimal has been a common destination for archaeologists and tourists alike.

If you have any interest in history or archaeology whatsoever, you will surely enjoy Umm Al-Jimal. While visiting the area, be sure to check out the ruins of the ancient Roman fort, as well as the variety of ruined churches. Also of note are the tall barracks, the water cisterns, and the remains of several town gates and fences, all dating back thousands of years.